The DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority today released new data showing strong interest by people and businesses in the District of Columbia in affordable quality health insurance. Between October 1 and November 13, DC Health Link had more than 84,272 unique visitors and 19,706 accounts were created to shop, compare, and choose a health insurance plan that meets ones needs and budgets. To date, 696 employer accounts have been created.

As of 8 am today:

There were 1,350* applications completed on-line for full price coverage;

1,953* applications were completed for premium reductions and Medicaid determinations;

1,115* account holders have selected a health plan; and

565* account holders have requested an invoice.

(*Note: Families only need to open one account and complete only one application. These numbers do not reflect the total number of covered lives.)

Consumers have until December 15, 2013, to complete their enrollment by paying their first month’s premium to have coverage begin January 1, 2014. There are 34 different coverage options available for individuals and families from three carriers.

There has also been strong interest among small businesses. There are 267 health insurance options available through DCHealthLink.com from Aetna, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Kaiser Permanente, and United Healthcare. Employers can offer their employees full choice of insurers and plans including HMOs, PPOs, zero-deductible, and high-deductible HSA-compatible plans.

“DCHealthLink.com opened for business in the District of Columbia on October 1,” said Mila Kofman, JD, executive director of the DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority. “Today’s data shows that in the District, just like all over America, individuals, families, and small businesses are looking for competitively priced comprehensive health insurance.”

The open enrollment period for individuals and families to shop for health insurance through DC Health Link runs through March 31, 2014. Employers can shop for coverage at any time; those who enroll their employees and pay by December 15, 2013, will have coverage effective January 1, 2014. Such employers also will not have to meet any minimum participation or contribution.

The table below summarizes the activity and indicates strong interest by District residents and small businesses in shopping, comparing, and choosing quality, affordable health insurance.